Kendrick Lamar delivered a year-end shocker with the surprise release of GNX, and the numbers prove once again why he’s a heavyweight in the rap game.

The album officially moved 324,000 album-equivalent units in its first week, according to HITS Daily Double, with a staggering 290,000 coming from streaming services and nearly 33,000 in pure album sales. For an unannounced drop, GNX hit harder than most anticipated, but let’s be honest—Kendrick’s greatness is no surprise.

While the sales figures are impressive, the conversation around GNX goes far beyond the charts. Fans and critics alike are dissecting the album’s intricate lyrics, including a standout moment where Kendrick gives a nod to Ab-Soul. The shoutout didn’t go unnoticed, as Ab-Soul reflected on the gesture during a recent Instagram Live session. “I’m very honored,” he said. “That’s my brother. He taught me the most as a professional recording artist. I just wanted to make that very clear.” He even boldly claimed his spot as the “B.O.A.T,” or Best of All Time, while expressing his admiration for Kendrick’s artistry.

Kendrick Lamar’s influence is nothing new, but GNX solidifies his place as a titan in the industry. Even older projects like good kid, m.A.A.d city continue to outperform some of this year’s major releases, proving his music’s staying power. While other artists might dominate headlines for a moment, Kendrick’s work remains etched in hip-hop history, standing tall alongside heavyweights like Kanye West and Ty Dolla $ign.

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Fans are already placing bets on how long GNX will hold its grip on the culture. With Kendrick set to headline the Super Bowl halftime show, the album’s impact is only expected to grow. Packed with introspective lyrics and irresistible beats, GNX is a testament to why Kendrick Lamar remains one of rap’s most consistent and compelling voices.

What’s your take on Kendrick’s surprise release? Do you think GNX is destined to be another classic? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.

Steve Carrier

Steve is the Founder of Thirsty for News and Ringside News. He has been writing about various topics dating back to 1997. He first got into website development at the time and has been focused on bringing his readers the best professional wrestling news at it's highest quality.

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